US Visa Photo Requirements 2025

US Visa Photo Specifications (DS-160)

Requirement	Specification
Photo size	2 × 2 inches (51 × 51 mm)
Head size	1 – 1⅜ inches from chin to crown
Background	White or off-white
Expression	Neutral, mouth closed
Photo age	Taken within last 6 months
Glasses	Not permitted
Digital (DS-160)	JPEG, 600×600 to 1200×1200 px, max 240KB

⚠️ DS-160 upload limit: The DS-160 form limits digital photo files to 240KB. PassportSnap outputs the correct file size automatically.

Get Your US Visa Photo Ready for DS-160

PassportSnap creates DS-160 compliant photos — correct dimensions, file size, and format. Ready in 2 minutes.

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US Visa Photo vs US Passport Photo

The specifications are nearly identical. The main practical difference is the digital file size limit for DS-160 (240KB) which PassportSnap handles automatically.

Common US Visa Photo Mistakes

❌ File too large for DS-160

DS-160 rejects files over 240KB. PassportSnap compresses your photo to the correct size.

❌ Wrong dimensions for DS-160

DS-160 requires between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels. Most smartphone photos need resizing.

❌ Wearing glasses

No glasses of any type are permitted in US visa photos.

Frequently Asked Questions

What are the US visa photo requirements?

US visa photos must be 2×2 inches, with a white or off-white background, taken within the last 6 months, no glasses, and a neutral expression. For DS-160 digital upload, the file must be a JPEG between 600–1200 pixels and under 240KB.

Can I use my passport photo for a US visa application?

Yes — if the photo was taken within the last 6 months and meets all specifications. The requirements are the same.

How do I upload a photo to DS-160?

The DS-160 form has a dedicated photo upload section. You need a JPEG file between 600×600 and 1200×1200 pixels, under 240KB. PassportSnap generates the correct file.